Early Renaissance sculptor Donatello was influenced by his work as a metalworker. His saints and angels were sculpted in marble via a technique called “rilievo schiacciato” (squashed relief) and was fortified by his almost supernatural, meticulous dedication.

Visions, enhanced with shadows and emotion, came to life on marble through sketching the stone and chiseling and carving entirely by hand.

Nowadays, machinery like edge polishers make calibration, grinding, shaping and beveling possible with great ease and high-pressure waterjet cutting and polishing systems used for complex contours and sensitive materials . From the trade fair grounds of Marmomac in Verona to Venice-based craft biennial Homo Faber, marble furniture, decor and lighting are taking on new poetic forms that defy gravity. WWD explores new launches that echo an emerging dialogue between material, technology, light and design .

Kreoo’s Litia Lamp by Enzo Berti and Christophe Pillet

Kreoo’s Litia lamp by Enzo Berti.…